Are you planning a trip to Prague? Forget about calling a taxi, Prague has one of the most comprehensive public transport systems in Europe, allowing you to get practically anywhere. And the main means of transport used by most tourists is, of course, the Prague metro.
I grew up in Prague and use the Prague metro every day. And this is my ultimate guide to getting around the city by metro. If you are also interested in other public transport, read my general article on public transport in Prague.
Prague metro map
You will find a clear map of the Prague metro at every metro station in Prague. But you can download it in advance at this link.
It will be much easier if you download the popular IDOS app. It is in Czech, but you can switch it to English in the settings. The app allows you to easily find the easiest connection to any place in the Czech Republic, shows you exactly where to go, and includes information about delays and departure points.
Prague metro prices and fares
Traveling on the Prague metro is very cheap and accessible. With a single ticket, you can use an unlimited number of means of transport in Prague (metro, trams, buses, and even trains) for a specified period of time. I have more information about tickets for you in the section below.
The current ticket prices are as follows:
| Period of validity | App ticket | Paper ticket |
| 30 minutes | CZK 36 | CZK 39 |
| 90 minutes | CZK 46 | CZK 50 |
| 24 hours | CZK 140 | CZK 150 |
| 72 hours | CZK 340 | CZK 350 |
Children under 15 and seniors over 65 can travel around Prague for free. However, you must always have valid ID with you to prove the passenger’s current age. People between 60 and 65 can purchase a discounted ticket.
Prague metro tickets
Now you know how much tickets for the Prague metro cost. But where can you get them and how do you use them correctly? You will find out everything you need to know below.
Where to purchase tickets for Prague Metro?
Tickets for the Prague metro can be purchased in many places. However, the easiest way is to buy them from the yellow ticket machines. These machines are located in all metro stations, usually just before the entrance to the paid zone. You can pay by card or cash at the machines.
Alternatively, you can buy a ticket in the PID app. There are also contactless terminals at the metro entrance, which allow you to purchase a ticket immediately with a contactless card. In the metro, you may also notice official ticket windows, where there is usually a relatively long queue. These are intended more for locals, although single tickets can also be purchased there.
PLEASE NOTE: The ticket you have just purchased is not yet valid! It must be validated, only once (when you first enter the metro). The most common mistake tourists make in Prague is forgetting to validate their ticket or accidentally validating it more than once.
Where to validate tickets for Prague Metro?
Ticket validators are usually located in front of the escalators or stairs that lead directly to the platform. Remember that beyond this zone, you may be checked by ticket inspectors even if you have not boarded the metro.
Validate your ticket only once (before your first trip on public transport). The direction of validation is indicated by arrows on the ticket.
Prague metro lines
The Prague metro consists of three lines that are connected by three transfer stations. This allows you to transfer from any line to the other two lines.
These are the three lines of the Prague metro:
- Line A (green) – Nemocnice Motol – Skalka (Depo Hostivař): this is the most convenient line for traveling to tourist attractions, as it goes to Prague Castle, Malá Strana, and the Old Town
- Line B (yellow) – Zličín – Černý most: takes you to Smíchov and Anděl, areas that are less known to tourists but very popular with locals, and also passes through Wenceslas Square and Republic Square
- Line C (red) – Letňany – Háje: among other places, it goes to the main train station and the Florenc bus station.
Prague metro stations and stops
The three lines of the Prague metro have a large number of stops and stations. It would be pointless to list them all here. The following stations may be of interest to tourists:
- Hradčanská (line A) – the best access to Prague Castle
- Malostranská (line A) – in the heart of Malá Strana below Prague Castle
- Staroměstská (line A) – just a short walk to Josefov and Old Town Square
- Můstek (lines A and B) – transfer station in the middle of Wenceslas Square
- Muzeum (lines A and C) – transfer station near the National Museum
- Vyšehrad (line C) – just a short walk from the lookout hill and the oldest seat of Czech kings
- Hlavní nádraží (line C) – transfer to train lines
- Nádraží Veleslavín (line A) – trolleybus connection to the airport runs from here
All metro stations have ticket machines, mostly accessible toilets (not always in the best condition), small shops, and orientation signs.
The stations are very well marked with directions and exits. If you are connecting to the metro or tram, the IDOS app will show you the exit number, which will help you find your way around.
Prague metro schedule (timetable)
The Prague metro runs all day, with a break in service only between midnight and 5:00 a.m. During this time, you can use many night bus and tram lines.
Individual metro trains run at intervals of 2-4 minutes during rush hour and 5-10 minutes on weekends or outside rush hour.
Frequently asked questions – Prague metro
Can one ticket be used by more than one person?
No, Prague metro tickets are non-transferable. Please purchase a separate ticket for each member of your group.
Do students get a discount on fares?
Yes, students get a discount on fares in Prague, but only for longer periods. This discount does not apply to short-term tickets (e.g., 24 or 72 hours).
Are the stations equipped with elevators?
Most Prague metro stations are equipped with elevators, but unfortunately this is not yet the case for all of them. Stations without elevators often have at least moving ramps for wheelchair users or for moving strollers.
Can I use the metro to travel from the airport to the center of Prague?
No, the metro does not go to the airport. However, you can easily get to the airport by trolleybus (line 59) from the Nádraží Veleslavín metro station or by bus (line 100) from the Zličín metro station.
Is the Prague metro safe?
Absolutely! I used to ride the metro regularly on my own as a child, and it is definitely not a risky activity. However, as in any other big city, you will encounter pickpockets here. So keep an eye on your belongings!
